ACCESS TO INFORMATION ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY-PANOS
PANOS Institute Southern Africa (PSAf) says Access to Information is an essential component of a democratic society as it enables citizens to hold their elected representatives accountable for the decisions they make and the ways in which they spend public money.
PANOS Executive Director Vusumuzi Sifile has therefore emphasized the critical role of access to information for citizens beyond the realm of the media.
Mr Sifile highlighted the significance role of public meetings as a crucial avenue for promoting access to information and explained why it is essential for citizens to take part in advocating for the quick enactment of ATI BIll by Parliament.
He was speaking to journalists on the sidelines of a public meeting on access to information, at Dambwa Central township market in Livingstone recently.
“Access to information is not just about the media, but it is about empowering citizens in their everyday lives,” said Sifile.
“When citizens have access to accurate and reliable information, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their lives, their communities, and their governments. Therefore, access to information is crucial for citizens to exercise their rights, participate in decision-making processes, and hold governments and institutions accountable,” he said.
Mr Sifile highlighted that access to information empowers citizens by providing them with knowledge, which is power to exercise their rights.
He said that transparency and accountability are key principles of good governance, and access to information plays a critical role in ensuring these principles are upheld.
Mr Sifile added, “access to information enables citizens to actively participate in democratic processes such as elections, referendums, and public consultations by providing them with the necessary knowledge to make informed choices and express their opinions.”
Furthermore, he said access to information is essential for social and economic development.
“Citizens need information to access education, healthcare, job opportunities, and other resources that contribute to their well-being and development. It empowers citizens to acquire skills, pursue economic opportunities, and make informed choices about their livelihoods,” he said.
He said it also fosters innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, which are essential for economic growth and development.
And a Dambwa Central
Township resident, Esther Chimbali has appreciated PANOS for embarking on a sensitization program to equip citizens with knowledge on access to information.